Information for the New kitten Owner

 

General :
When you acquire a new kitten we advise that you let it settle in for a few days and use this time to familiarize yourself with your kitten health. After 3 - 5 days you should have your kitten checked out by the Vet and he will advise you at that stage on all aspects of kitten care and answer any queries you might have. It is very important to get the right advise from the outlet to avoid any unnecessary problems later.

   1. Worming - Most kittens carry roundworms. The eggs of these worms are not visible and are harmful to children. They can be eliminated using Drontal ( 1 tablet per 4 kg) every three weeks up until the kitten reaches 6 month of age. (adults - one tablet every three months)

2. Vaccinations - Kittens should not be allowed access to public places until they are fully vaccinated. This involves a series of injections beginning from 8 weeks of age and finishing at 12 weeks.  They are vaccinated for Cat Flu and Enteritis, two potentially fatal diseases that are prevented by vaccination. A vaccine is now also on the market for feline leukaemia. Cat vaccinations need to be topped up annually with a booster given at their annual health check up.

3. Feeding - It is important to get this correct from the outset. Firstly, cats once weaned are better off without milk. There are many good commercial foods on the market and, as cats have very specific dietary requirements, we advise that you stick to these diets. There are some very good dry diets on the market. There are easy to feed and are less expensive than tinned food. There also much better for maintaining good dental health. Your kitten will love these foods provided they are introduced from an early age.

4. Neutering - it is standard practice to have all cats, females and males, neutered at 5.1/2 months of age. Many newborn kittens have to be put down, as homes cannot be found for them. There is no merit in letting your cat have kittens - unless you want the kittens. Male cats are 50% responsible for kitten numbers! So they should also be neutered. In addition neutering tom cats greatly reduces their wanderings, fighting, involvement in car accidents and spraying (foul smelling urine) around their territory - your house!

UP THE REBELS!!!!

For more Pedigree breeders in Ireland check Dublin Cat Club at
www.sabcci.com
 

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